Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, the only year-round luxury resort in the Hamptons, announced the appointment of three new members to its food and beverage and events teams: Robert Hamburg as Executive Chef; Kate Killoran as Food and Beverage Director; and Lesley Blackburn as Director of Catering and Conference Services. With experience at notable hotels and restaurants across North America, the collective knowledge and expertise of the three new additions reinforce the resort as the premier Hamptons destination.

Robert joins Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa as Executive Chef. In his new role, Robert leads recipe and menu development across Gurney’s Montauk’s dining outlets, including Scarpetta Beach, Tillies and The Beach Club. Robert brings more than thirty years of experience in the food and beverage industry, spanning roles at some of New York’s most renowned restaurants and private clubs, such as Sands Point Golf Club, City Winery’s Pier 57 flagship eatery and David Burke & Donatella. Robert also spent time studying East-Meets-West cuisine under Ming Tsai at Santacafe in Santa Fe.

Kate takes on the role of Food and Beverage Director, in which she oversees the day-to-day operation of the resort’s culinary and bar establishments and develops new and exciting concepts to elevate the food and beverage programs. Kate has more than two decades of experience in the food and beverage space. Most recently she served as the as the Director of Food and Beverage at The Dewberry Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina.

Additionally, Lesley joins the team as Director of Catering and Conference Services overseeing all event and wedding production at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, as well as Gurney’s Star Island. With extensive hospitality and wedding experience from her time at iconic establishments in New York City, including The Plaza Hotel, Cipriani and The Peninsula New York, Lesley brings a wealth of knowledge to events and weddings at Gurney’s. Born and raised in England, Lesley began her hospitality career gaining experience in both the Middle East and Australia before moving to New York City.

“Robert, Kate and Lesley join our team at a pivotal time, as we prepare for the 2021 summer season,” says George Filopoulos, owner of Gurney’s Resorts. “Together, their combined experience makes them indispensable additions to our teams as we continue to create unforgettable experiences for each and every one of our visitors.”

With six unique drinking and dining venues, Gurney’s Montauk offers an array of options from elegant seasonal cuisine at Scarpetta Beach to light bites at The Firepit and craft cocktails at The Regent Cocktail Club. Gurney’s Montauk further offers deluxe, full-service meeting, event and wedding venues with 25,000-square-feet of elegant indoor and outdoor space.